ADHD ASSESSMENT AND TREATMENT SERVICE

Dr Baig offers comprehensive ADHD assessment and treatment services for individuals aged 12 and above.

SERVICE PACKAGES AVAILABLE

We offer three distinct packages to meet different needs:

1. ADHD Assessment Service for Adults (18+) – £1,250

This comprehensive diagnostic assessment is designed to determine whether your difficulties stem from ADHD or if there may be other explanations for your symptoms.

2. Multidisciplinary ADHD Assessment for Young People (12-18 years) – £1,750

A thorough assessment conducted by Dr Baig in collaboration with another member of the multidisciplinary team, specifically designed for adolescents.

3. ADHD Treatment Package – £1,250

This package is exclusively available for patients who have been diagnosed with ADHD following an assessment by Dr Baig. The package includes treatment initiation and careful medication titration over a three-month period through six 15-minute remote follow-up appointments scheduled at weeks 0, 2, 4, 6, 8, and 12. It covers all private prescriptions needed during these three months, provides email support throughout the titration process, and includes assistance with setting up a shared care agreement with your GP (though this remains subject to your GP's agreement to take on prescribing).

ADHD ASSESSMENT FOR ADULTS - £1,250

UNDERSTANDING THE ASSESSMENT PURPOSE

The ADHD assessment aims to determine whether your difficulties stem from ADHD or if there may be another explanation for your symptoms. Symptoms such as restlessness, inattention, impulsivity, hyperactivity, and disorganisation can have various causes beyond ADHD, including other mental health conditions, life circumstances, or normal variations in human personality and cognitive functioning.

Our assessment process is designed to establish whether one factor or a combination of factors contributes to these symptoms. If ADHD is confirmed as the diagnosis, the assessment guides the development of a personalised treatment plan tailored to your specific needs. The assessment includes both a comprehensive psychiatric evaluation to understand your overall mental health and a specialised ADHD evaluation following established diagnostic protocols.

WHAT THE ASSESSMENT DOES AND DOESN'T INCLUDE

This assessment focuses specifically on ADHD and does not include a formal diagnostic opinion regarding autism spectrum conditions. A separate comprehensive assessment would be required for autism diagnosis. However, we recognise that ADHD and autism can co-occur, and based on your ADHD assessment results, we may recommend further autism evaluation if this appears to be a possibility. Should you prefer to have both conditions assessed simultaneously, we offer a joint Autism and ADHD assessment package at £2,450, which provides a comprehensive evaluation of both conditions.

SETTING REALISTIC EXPECTATIONS

ADHD assessment doesn't always result in an ADHD diagnosis. The assessment may conclude that other explanations better account for your symptoms, as various mental health difficulties can cause similar presentations to ADHD. Even if you or others strongly believe you have ADHD based on personal research, online resources, or opinions from family, friends, or other professionals, Dr Baig's assessment follows established diagnostic standards and relies on his professional clinical judgement. The diagnostic opinion provided reflects strict adherence to these standards and cannot be altered to accommodate specific expectations or pre-existing beliefs about diagnosis.

THE ASSESSMENT PROCESS

Step 1: Booking and Documentation

Once we agree on an appointment date, we'll send you a comprehensive booking form to complete. As part of this process, we'll request your consent to access your GP summary records, which provide valuable information about your medical history. We also encourage you to provide any additional documentation related to your past mental health treatment, previous assessments, or relevant medical records. This information can be uploaded directly via the booking form or to your healthcare records once the booking is confirmed. The more comprehensive information we have, the more thorough our assessment can be.

Step 2: Pre-Appointment Questionnaires

Following your booking, you'll receive a set of psychometric and clinical questionnaires via email. These questionnaires are carefully selected to provide essential baseline information about your symptoms, their impact on your life, and your overall functioning. Completing these questionnaires before your appointment is crucial as it ensures we can focus our face-to-face time on the most important areas requiring detailed evaluation, rather than spending time on basic information gathering.

Step 3: Informant Information

As part of the comprehensive assessment process, we'll need contact details for someone who knows you well, ideally someone who has known you from childhood through to adulthood. This could be a parent, sibling, long-term partner, or close friend. This person will receive a relative feedback form that focuses particularly on your early life experiences and developmental history. The form typically takes approximately 30 minutes to complete and provides crucial information about your childhood behaviours and symptoms. If the person you nominate cannot complete the online form for any reason, one of Dr Baig's team members can arrange to gather this information through a telephone conversation.

Step 4: Clinical Assessment

The core of the assessment involves a 90-minute appointment with Dr Baig. During this time, you'll complete a structured ADHD assessment interview that systematically explores all aspects of ADHD symptoms across your lifespan. This is followed by a detailed discussion of the conclusions drawn from the entire assessment process. It's important to note that this appointment involves only you and does not require the presence of relatives or the person who provided informant information.

Step 5: Additional Assessment (if needed)

In some cases where difficulties are particularly complex or where more information is needed to reach a clear diagnostic conclusion, we may need to complete additional questionnaires or arrange a second appointment after the initial consultation. This additional step, if required, is part of our commitment to diagnostic accuracy and does not incur any extra charges beyond the initial assessment fee.

ASSESSMENT FORMAT OPTIONS

We understand that people have different preferences and circumstances, so you can choose between online or in-person assessment when booking your appointment. Both formats follow the same rigorous assessment protocol and provide equally valid diagnostic outcomes.

IMPORTANT CONSIDERATIONS BEFORE YOUR ASSESSMENT

THE DIAGNOSTIC PROCESS

ADHD diagnosis requires a specific, structured diagnostic assessment and cannot be made in a standard 50-minute psychiatric consultation. The diagnostic process is comprehensive and involves multiple components that must all be carefully evaluated before reaching a conclusion.

Current Symptom Assessment

The assessment must establish that current difficulties meet the specific criteria outlined in ICD 11. This involves confirming that symptoms originate from ADHD rather than other conditions and ensuring that the symptoms aren't better explained by another mental health condition. This differential diagnosis process is crucial because many conditions can present with similar symptoms to ADHD.

When ADHD Diagnosis May Not Be Possible

An ADHD diagnosis is unlikely to be made when severe symptoms of certain conditions are present. These include severe anxiety or depression, active suicidal ideation, hypomania or significant alcohol or recreational drug use. The reason for this is that these conditions can significantly overlap with ADHD symptoms, profoundly affecting emotions, impulsivity, concentration, organisation, and executive function. When these conditions are active, it becomes extremely challenging to distinguish between lifelong ADHD symptoms and the acute effects of these other mental health difficulties.

The diagnostic process requires certainty in distinguishing ADHD from other conditions, which may not be achievable when acute mental health issues are present. Therefore, we strongly recommend seeking support for acute mental health problems first. Once these conditions have been adequately treated and your functioning has returned to a stable baseline, you may then request an ADHD assessment. This approach ensures the most accurate diagnostic outcome.

ASSESSMENT VERSUS TREATMENT

ADHD assessment and treatment are entirely separate processes. The assessment aims solely to reach a diagnostic conclusion about whether ADHD is present. No medications are initiated during the assessment appointment, and no specific medication recommendations are made at this stage. The assessment will provide general recommendations about whether medication treatment might be helpful and will include guidance on lifestyle interventions, but actual treatment initiation requires engagement with our separate treatment package.

PRIVATE ASSESSMENT LIMITATIONS

Dr Baig cannot request NHS services to provide treatment following a private diagnosis, cannot direct GPs to prescribe medications (as they require specialist initiation), and cannot guarantee that the diagnosis will be accepted by a specific institution or professional. While the assessment follows rigorous standards, different organisations may have their own policies regarding private diagnoses.

GP COMMUNICATION

Before your assessment, we strongly recommend taking several steps regarding GP communication. First, inform your GP that you're pursuing a private ADHD assessment. This transparency helps maintain good communication with your primary care provider. Second, if you're diagnosed with ADHD, discuss with your GP whether they would be willing to enter into a shared care arrangement for ongoing prescriptions after the initial titration period. Understanding your GP's position on prescribing ADHD medications before you begin the assessment process can help you make informed decisions about your care pathway.

MEDICATION CONSIDERATIONS

ADHD diagnosis doesn't automatically lead to medication prescription. There are separate considerations for medication treatment that go beyond diagnosis alone. These include the severity and functional impact of your symptoms, whether lifestyle and environmental interventions should be attempted first, your current physical and mental health status, and the clinical judgment regarding safety and appropriateness of medication in your specific circumstances. The decision to prescribe medication involves careful risk-benefit analysis and is made collaboratively between you and the clinician.

MEDICATION AVAILABILITY

Current market conditions have created significant shortages of some ADHD medications. These shortages may impact available treatment options, influence GP willingness to enter shared care agreements due to supply uncertainty, and potentially affect continuity of medication supply once treatment is initiated. We believe it's important you're aware of these challenges before beginning the assessment process.

ADHD ASSESSMENT FOR YOUNG PEOPLE (12-18 YEARS) - £1,750

MULTIDISCIPLINARY APPROACH

The assessment for young people aged 12-18 follows a comprehensive multidisciplinary approach. Dr Baig works collaboratively with another experienced member of the multidisciplinary team to ensure a thorough evaluation that considers all aspects of the young person's development and current functioning. This approach recognises the unique challenges of diagnosing ADHD in adolescence, where developmental changes and environmental factors must be carefully considered.

ASSESSMENT COMPONENTS

Parent/Guardian Consultation (90 minutes)

The assessment begins with an extensive meeting with parents or guardians. This initial consultation explores the young person's developmental history from early childhood through to the present day. We gather detailed information about mental health background, including any previous concerns, diagnoses, or treatments. Physical health considerations are reviewed comprehensively, as these can impact both ADHD symptoms and treatment options. Most importantly, we explore in detail the primary concerns regarding ADHD symptoms, their onset, progression, and current impact on the young person's life.

Young Person Assessment

The young person attends a separate appointment where we conduct an age-appropriate mental health assessment and complete a structured diagnostic interview specifically designed for ADHD in adolescents. This meeting is conducted in a supportive environment that encourages open discussion while gathering the necessary diagnostic information. We ensure the young person feels comfortable and understood throughout the process.

Additional Information Gathering

A comprehensive assessment requires information from multiple sources. We request feedback from the young person's school or college to understand how symptoms manifest in educational settings. Psychometric evaluation using Conners' rating scales provides standardised measurement of symptoms across different environments. Additional psychiatric assessments may be conducted as needed to ensure we have a complete understanding of the young person's difficulties.

Feedback Appointment

Following completion of all assessment components, including receipt of psychometric results and meetings with both the young person and parents, we arrange a feedback appointment. During this meeting, we discuss the assessment findings in detail, explain the diagnostic conclusions, and provide comprehensive treatment recommendations if ADHD is diagnosed.

ASSESSMENT OUTCOMES

The assessment provides clear diagnostic conclusions and detailed treatment recommendations. It's important to understand that no medications are prescribed during the assessment process itself. If medication is considered a safe and appropriate option based on the assessment findings, we provide detailed information about accessing ADHD medication treatment through our separate treatment package. We also provide comprehensive information about psychosocial support interventions, which form an important part of ADHD management for young people.

SCHOOL/COLLEGE SUPPORT

We understand the importance of educational support for young people with ADHD. A detailed support letter for the young person's educational institution can be provided upon request. This letter is included in the assessment cost and can outline the diagnosis, its likely impact on learning, and general recommendations for support. However, specific educational accommodations should be determined by the school in consultation with their educational support team.

AFTER YOUR ASSESSMENT

ASSESSMENT REPORT

Timeline and Distribution

You will receive a comprehensive written report within four weeks of your assessment. This report provides detailed information about the assessment process, findings, and recommendations. While we aim to provide reports within this timeframe, occasional delays may occur due to periods of annual leave or unexpected illness. We appreciate your patience and will notify you if any delays are anticipated. Once received, you're welcome to share this report with any relevant parties, including healthcare providers, educational institutions, or employers as you see fit.

Additional Documentation

We can provide letters for third parties for various purposes. These include confirmation letters for employers that verify your diagnosis without providing unnecessary medical details. For educational institutions, we can provide documentation supporting applications for reasonable adjustments. If you need to travel with controlled medications, we can provide appropriate travel letters that comply with international requirements. These additional letters are included in your assessment fee when requested at the time of assessment.

Higher Education Support

For students in higher education, an ADHD diagnosis can open doors to valuable support. A diagnosis confirmation letter can support applications for Disabled Students Allowance (DSA). This can provide funding for various accommodations including extra time in examinations, use of separate rooms for exams to minimise distractions, permission for additional breaks during long exams or lectures, access to assistive technology, and specialised mentorship focusing on ADHD-specific study skills and organisation strategies. We can provide the necessary documentation to support these applications.

Documentation Limitations

While our reports are comprehensive, they have certain limitations. Reports cannot specify exact workplace adjustments, as these require individual occupational assessments that consider specific job requirements and workplace environments. They don't provide detailed accommodation plans, which need to be developed collaboratively with employers or educational institutions. Individual workplace evaluations require specialist occupational health input, which is a separate service from diagnostic assessment.

SELF-HELP RESOURCES

Your adult ADHD report will include carefully selected information about self-help materials and resources. These resources are chosen to help you develop a deeper understanding of ADHD and build practical skills for managing symptoms. The resources cover various aspects of living with ADHD, including organisational strategies, emotional regulation techniques, and relationship management.

TREATMENT PLANNING

It's important to understand that assessment costs cover the diagnostic evaluation only. Treatment interventions, including medication, require engagement with our separate ADHD treatment package. This separation ensures that the assessment remains focused on accurate diagnosis rather than being influenced by treatment considerations.

Medication Initiation Requirements

If medication is recommended following your assessment, it must be initiated by a specialist with expertise in ADHD. General practitioners cannot start ADHD medications based on a private assessment alone, even with a clear diagnosis. The initiation process requires gradual titration over approximately three months, with careful monitoring of effects and side effects. This process involves mandatory follow-up appointments to ensure safe and effective treatment.

Shared Care Considerations

After the three-month titration period, and once a stable dose is achieved, Dr Baig can request a shared care agreement with your GP. Under such an agreement, your GP would take over prescribing responsibilities and conduct routine physical health monitoring, while you would continue to have annual reviews with Dr Baig. However, it's crucial to understand that shared care remains entirely at the GP's discretion, and they cannot be compelled to accept this arrangement.

We strongly advise discussing the possibility of shared care with your GP before booking your assessment. Understanding your GP's position helps you make informed decisions about the financial implications of ongoing treatment.

ADHD MEDICATION TREATMENT INFORMATION

TREATMENT AVAILABILITY

Following your assessment, if ADHD is diagnosed, medication may be available as a treatment option based on your medical and mental health history. The assessment will have identified any contraindications to medication use. However, before any medication can be started, we must ensure that baseline measurements of blood pressure, pulse, and weight are within satisfactory ranges. These measurements are crucial for safe prescribing and ongoing monitoring.

HOW ADHD MEDICATIONS CAN HELP

ADHD medications can be remarkably effective in managing core symptoms. These medications work by affecting neurotransmitter systems in the brain, particularly dopamine and noradrenaline, which are involved in attention, impulse control, and executive function. When effective, medications can help with inattention symptoms, allowing better focus on tasks, reduced distractibility, and improved ability to follow through on activities. They can reduce impulsivity, leading to better decision-making, less interrupting in conversations, and improved emotional regulation. Hyperactivity symptoms often improve, with many people experiencing a sense of inner calm and reduced restlessness.

Approximately 70% of individuals with ADHD experience noticeable improvements with medication. These improvements often extend beyond core symptoms, with many people reporting better organisation skills, improved time management, and enhanced ability to prioritise tasks. Importantly, medications may also alleviate secondary symptoms such as anxiety and feelings of overwhelm that often result from struggling with untreated ADHD symptoms.

IMPORTANT CONSIDERATIONS

While ADHD medications can be beneficial for managing core symptoms, it's essential to maintain realistic expectations. These medications are not a comprehensive solution for all mental health challenges. They specifically target ADHD symptoms but do not address other mental health conditions that may coexist with ADHD, such as primary anxiety disorders, depression, or trauma-related difficulties.

Individual responses to medication vary considerably. While many people experience significant benefits, others may find limited improvement or may experience side effects that outweigh benefits. In some cases, particularly in individuals with underlying anxiety or mood disorders, stimulant medications may exacerbate anxiety, increase irritability, or worsen mood symptoms. All ADHD medications also carry potential cardiovascular side effects, including increased heart rate and blood pressure, which require careful monitoring.

A COMPREHENSIVE APPROACH

The evidence clearly shows that while medications can play an important role in managing ADHD symptoms, they are most effective when combined with other interventions. Lifestyle modifications such as regular exercise, adequate sleep, and structured routines enhance medication effectiveness. Psychological interventions, including cognitive behavioural therapy adapted for ADHD, can help develop coping strategies and address associated difficulties. Environmental adjustments at work or in education can reduce the functional impact of symptoms.

A holistic approach that combines these elements often yields the best outcomes. It's important to maintain realistic expectations about what medication can achieve and to view it as one tool among many in managing ADHD.

UNDERSTANDING THE TREATMENT PROCESS

Assessment and medication treatment for ADHD are distinct components of care. While the assessment establishes diagnosis, medication treatment represents a medium-term intervention that requires careful initiation, monitoring, and adjustment rather than simply writing a prescription. This process is part of our ADHD treatment package, which is separate from the assessment.

The treatment package provides structured support through the critical early months of treatment. It includes regular appointments to monitor your response, adjust doses as needed, and address any concerns or side effects. This level of support is essential for achieving optimal outcomes with medication.

If more than six months elapse between your ADHD assessment and deciding to explore medication, an additional psychiatric review will be necessary. This ensures that medication remains a safe and appropriate option, as circumstances and health status can change over time.

FACTORS TO CONSIDER

Before starting medication, several important factors need careful consideration. First, we explore whether interventions for lifestyle and environmental modification have been attempted. Sometimes, these changes alone can significantly improve functioning. We assess the impact of symptoms on your quality of life and everyday functioning to determine whether medication is warranted. A thorough risk-benefit analysis considers your individual circumstances, medical history, and treatment goals.

While ADHD medications are effective for many people, not everyone benefits, and they may be associated with side effects that some find intolerable. The evidence consistently shows that ADHD medications work best in combination with psychological, environmental, and lifestyle interventions rather than as a standalone treatment.

SPECIALIST PRESCRIBING REQUIREMENTS

ADHD medication must be initiated by specialists with appropriate expertise. General practitioners cannot start ADHD medications based solely on a diagnostic assessment, even when the diagnosis is clear. This requirement exists because initiation requires specialist knowledge of medication selection, dosing strategies, and monitoring requirements. Only after a stable dose is established through specialist care can GPs potentially take over prescribing under a shared care agreement.

COMMON MEDICATIONS

The most commonly prescribed first-line medications for ADHD include methylphenidate, which is available in various formulations with different duration of action. Immediate-release versions last 3-4 hours, while modified-release versions can last 8-12 hours. Lisdexamfetamine is another stimulant option that provides day-long symptom control with once-daily dosing. For those who cannot take stimulants or don't respond to them, atomoxetine offers a non-stimulant alternative, though it typically takes several weeks to reach full effectiveness.

You can read detailed information about these medications, their expected effects, and potential side effects at Umid Home (choiceandmedication.org). We encourage you to review this information as part of your decision-making process.

CHOOSING THE RIGHT MEDICATION

Medication selection is a collaborative process that considers multiple factors. Your preferences are important, including concerns about side effects, dosing convenience, and treatment goals. The safety profile of different medications must be evaluated in the context of your medical history and current health status. Co-occurring physical and mental health conditions may make certain medications more or less appropriate.

For most individuals, stimulant medications such as lisdexamfetamine or methylphenidate are appropriate as first-line treatment due to their established efficacy and relatively rapid onset of action. However, medication choices are also influenced by current supply issues, which can affect availability of certain formulations. The final medication decision is made during your initial titration appointment, after reviewing all relevant information and blood test results, ensuring true shared decision-making.

Medication choices may need to be adjusted during titration based on your response and any side effects experienced. This flexibility is built into the treatment process.

UNDERSTANDING POTENTIAL RISKS

All ADHD medications carry potential risks that must be carefully considered. There is a low but possible risk of affecting heart rhythm, which is why baseline ECG may be required in some cases. More commonly, medications can impact heart rate and blood pressure, typically causing mild increases that require monitoring. Appetite suppression is common, particularly in the early stages of treatment, and weight loss may occur. Sleep can be affected, especially if medication is taken later in the day. Some individuals experience mood changes or increased anxiety, particularly during the initiation phase.

The use of ADHD medications in individuals with a history of heart problems requires extra caution. In such cases, medication may be contraindicated entirely, or suggested only when the potential benefits substantially outweigh the risks. This decision requires careful assessment and often consultation with other medical specialists.

FINDING THE RIGHT DOSE

There is no standard effective dose of ADHD medications that applies to everyone. Dosing is highly individual and cannot be predicted based on age, gender, body weight, or the severity of ADHD symptoms. Some people respond well to low doses, while others need higher doses to achieve benefit. The response to medication and potential for side effects vary greatly among individuals, even among family members with ADHD.

The titration process starts with low doses to assess tolerability and then gradually increases while carefully monitoring effectiveness and side effects. The goal is to find the optimal dose that offers the best balance between symptom improvement and side effect burden. This process, known as medication titration, typically takes about three months to complete. However, it may take longer if adjustments to the medication type or dosing schedule are necessary, which occurs in approximately 20% of cases.

CREATING THE RIGHT ENVIRONMENT FOR TREATMENT

To titrate medications safely and evaluate their true efficacy and side effects, certain conditions must be met. Medications should be initiated during stable life circumstances, without major life changes or stressors that could complicate assessment of medication effects. A structured daily routine helps in evaluating medication benefits consistently. There should be no acute medical or mental health issues that could interfere with treatment or increase risks.

The use of recreational drugs or non-prescribed medications must be avoided, as these can interact dangerously with ADHD medications or mask their effects. Alcohol consumption should ideally be minimal, limited to a few units occasionally over the weekend, as regular or heavy alcohol use can interfere with medication effectiveness and increase risks.

Significant general mental health concerns must be addressed as a priority before considering ADHD medication. These include severe anxiety or depression, active suicidal ideation, and substance use disorders. Attempting to treat ADHD while these conditions remain active is often ineffective and potentially harmful.

ADHD MEDICATION TITRATION PACKAGE - £1,250

PACKAGE ELIGIBILITY

This package is specifically designed and exclusively available for patients who have been diagnosed with ADHD following an assessment by Dr Baig. We cannot provide this treatment package based on assessments conducted by other clinicians, as medication initiation requires direct clinical responsibility and comprehensive understanding of the diagnostic assessment.

WHEN MEDICATION CAN BE PRESCRIBED

ADHD medications are only prescribed when it is safe and appropriate to do so. This decision takes into account the severity and nature of your ADHD symptoms, their functional impact on your daily life, your complete medical and psychiatric history, and your current mental health status. The assessment will have included recommendations about whether medication is an available option. However, even with a recommendation for medication, the final decision to proceed is made collaboratively with you, considering your preferences and circumstances.

TITRATION TIMELINE

The medication titration process typically takes three months for approximately 80% of patients. This timeline allows for gradual dose adjustments and careful monitoring of effects. However, in about 20% of cases, titration may extend beyond three months. This typically occurs when the initial medication needs to be changed due to insufficient efficacy or intolerable side effects, or when treatment interruptions occur due to supply issues or other circumstances. It's important to understand that the package covers three months of treatment, and any extension beyond this period incurs additional costs at standard rates.

PACKAGE INCLUSIONS

Appointments

The package includes six 15-minute remote appointments strategically scheduled to monitor your progress. These appointments occur at baseline (week 0), then at weeks 2, 4, 6, 8, and 12. This schedule allows for careful dose adjustments in the early stages, with longer intervals as treatment stabilises. All appointments are conducted remotely via secure video consultation and are offered on Monday and Tuesday mornings only due to clinical scheduling requirements. The initial appointment involves detailed discussion of medication options, reviewing benefits and risks of different medications, and collaborative decision-making about which medication to start.

Prescriptions and Support

All private prescriptions needed during the three-month titration period are included in the package cost, though the actual medication costs are separate and payable to the pharmacy. Throughout the titration period, you have access to email support for urgent queries related to medication effects or side effects. This support is crucial during the early stages of treatment when questions and concerns often arise. Unlike standard clinical correspondence, no additional administrative charges apply for email support during the titration period.

Shared Care Facilitation

If your GP has agreed in advance to consider a shared care arrangement, the package includes preparation and submission of a formal shared care agreement request. However, this can only be processed if you have obtained written confirmation from your GP before starting treatment that they are willing, in principle, to take over prescribing once titration is complete. Without this pre-confirmation, we cannot process shared care requests after titration, as GPs require advance notice to plan for taking on prescribing responsibilities.

THE TITRATION PROCESS

Appointment Schedule

All titration appointments are conducted virtually on Tuesdays. This scheduling allows for consistent clinical oversight and prescription processing. After receiving confirmation of your place in the treatment programme, there is typically a 4-6 week wait before titration appointments can begin. This time allows for preparation, baseline measurements, and any required blood tests. Each appointment lasts 15 minutes, which is sufficient for focused medication monitoring when combined with email support between appointments.

HOME MONITORING REQUIREMENTS

Safe medication titration requires regular monitoring of physical parameters. You must provide blood pressure, pulse, and weight readings at the beginning of each appointment. These measurements are absolutely essential, appointments cannot proceed without them, as they guide dosing decisions and ensure safety. You'll need to purchase home monitoring equipment, with a blood pressure monitor and weighing scale typically costing around £40 in total. This investment is crucial, as potential medication side effects include increases in pulse and blood pressure, as well as weight changes. Regular home monitoring allows for early detection of any concerning changes, particularly during the critical early treatment period.

Additional Tests

Depending on your medical history and baseline measurements, additional tests may be required. A baseline ECG might be necessary if there are any cardiac risk factors or abnormal physical health readings. Blood tests may be needed to check liver function (particularly for atomoxetine), kidney function, or other parameters based on your medical history. These tests are not included in the package cost and must be arranged either through your GP or a private provider. If going privately, we can provide contact details for services we work with, though costs must be paid directly to them.

GP COMMUNICATION

Professional standards require that we inform your GP about any treatment we provide. Therefore, we must copy all assessment findings, treatment plans, and prescription details to your GP. This communication ensures continuity of care and patient safety. Your explicit consent for this GP communication is mandatory, we cannot prescribe medications without it. This requirement exists even if you prefer not to involve your GP, as it's a fundamental aspect of safe prescribing practice.

FINANCIAL CONSIDERATIONS

Package Costs

The ADHD Treatment Package fee of £1,250 represents a comprehensive treatment programme. This covers six structured appointments over three months, all prescription writing and processing during this period, ongoing email support for medication-related queries, preparation of clinical letters and documentation, and shared care agreement preparation if applicable. This package pricing represents significant value compared to individual appointment and prescription costs.

Medication Costs (Not Included)

While the package covers prescription writing, medication costs are separate and payable directly to the pharmacy. Private prescription costs typically range from £50-150 per month, depending on the specific medication and dose prescribed. These costs can vary based on medication type (generic vs brand), current market availability, and individual pharmacy pricing. Unlike NHS prescriptions, private prescriptions are not subsidised, so you pay the full medication cost.

Potential Additional Costs

If titration extends beyond three months, additional costs apply. Extra appointments are charged at £225 each, and prescriptions outside the package period cost £75 each. These additional costs typically arise when medication changes are needed due to side effects or poor response, treatment interruptions occur due to supply issues or other factors, or complex cases require extended titration periods. Planning for these potential costs is important when considering treatment.

Long-term Costs Without Shared Care

If your GP does not accept a shared care agreement, ongoing costs include monthly prescriptions at £75 per prescription (£900 annually), six-monthly review appointments at £225 each (£450 annually), plus continuing medication costs. These expenses continue indefinitely while treatment remains under private care.

With Shared Care Agreement

When a shared care agreement is in place, costs reduce significantly to an annual specialist review at £225, with prescriptions managed by your GP at NHS rates. This represents substantial savings while maintaining specialist oversight. The annual review is mandatory for shared care continuation and involves comprehensive assessment of treatment effectiveness and ongoing need.

MEDICATION SUPPLY INFORMATION

Current market conditions have created significant challenges in ADHD medication supply. Various factors, including manufacturing issues and increased demand, mean we cannot guarantee consistent availability of any specific medication. These supply problems may result in treatment gaps if your prescribed medication becomes unavailable, need to switch between different brands or formulations, or delays in receiving medications even when prescribed.

To minimise these impacts, all prescriptions are processed through Signature Pharmacy, who have robust supply chains and stock management systems. When medications are temporarily unavailable, they operate a waiting list system and will dispatch your medication as soon as stock arrives. However, despite these measures, supply interruptions remain possible and should be considered when starting treatment.

SHARED CARE AGREEMENTS

GP SHARED CARE OVERVIEW

A shared care agreement represents a formal arrangement where prescribing responsibility transfers from specialist to GP after initial treatment stabilisation. Once you've completed three months of stable treatment with evidence of benefit and tolerable side effects, Dr Baig can request a formal shared care agreement with your GP. Under this arrangement, your GP takes over prescribing responsibilities, avoiding private prescription costs. The GP also conducts routine physical health monitoring, including six-monthly checks of blood pressure, pulse, and weight. You continue to have annual specialist reviews with Dr Baig to assess ongoing treatment need and effectiveness.

This arrangement benefits patients through reduced costs and integrated care between specialist and primary care services.

SHARED CARE REQUIREMENTS

Prerequisites

Several conditions must be met before a shared care agreement can be requested. First and most importantly, you must have written confirmation from your GP obtained before starting treatment that they are willing in principle to accept shared care. Without this pre-agreement, GPs will not accept shared care requests made after titration is complete.

You must have completed the full three-month titration period with evidence of treatment stability. The medication dose must have been stable for at least one month with no planned adjustments. There must be clear evidence of medication efficacy in improving ADHD symptoms and quality of life. Any side effects must be manageable and not require ongoing specialist input.

Your physical health parameters must be stable, with recent readings of blood pressure, pulse, and weight within acceptable ranges. You must demonstrate understanding of your responsibilities under shared care and agreement to maintain annual specialist reviews. A recent consultation must have provided your GP with comprehensive information about your current status and treatment plan.

Your Responsibilities

Under a shared care agreement, you have important ongoing responsibilities. You must attend annual specialist reviews with Dr Baig, as these are mandatory for shared care continuation. Regular attendance at GP monitoring appointments every six months is essential. You must inform both your GP and specialist of any significant changes in health status, side effects, or concerns about treatment. Maintaining stable lifestyle factors that support treatment effectiveness is important. You must also ensure you request prescriptions in good time to avoid treatment gaps.

GP COMMUNICATION TEMPLATE

To facilitate GP discussions about shared care, we provide a template letter for requesting shared care consideration. The template will be included in your ADHD assessment report. The template helps you communicate effectively with your GP about shared care requirements and their responsibilities. Using this template before starting treatment helps obtain the necessary GP pre-agreement.

IF GP DECLINES SHARED CARE

Many GPs now decline shared care agreements, citing various concerns including medication supply issues, lack of resources for monitoring, or policies about private treatment. If your GP declines shared care, Dr Baig continues prescribing with associated costs. This includes monthly prescription fees of £75 per prescription and mandatory six-monthly review appointments at £225 each. These ongoing private costs continue indefinitely while you remain on treatment. Understanding your GP's position before starting treatment helps you make informed decisions about long-term affordability.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

FINANCIAL PLANNING

What are the total costs involved?

Understanding the complete financial commitment is essential before proceeding with assessment and treatment.

Assessment Phase: The Adult ADHD Assessment costs £1,250 and provides comprehensive diagnostic evaluation. For young people aged 12-18, the assessment cost is £1,750, reflecting the additional complexity of adolescent assessment. It's crucial to understand that no treatment is included in the assessment fee, this covers diagnosis only.

Treatment Phase (if diagnosed): If ADHD is diagnosed and medication is recommended, the ADHD Treatment Package costs an additional £1,250. You'll also need to purchase home monitoring equipment (blood pressure monitor and scales) for approximately £40-50. Monthly medication costs typically range from £50-150, payable directly to the pharmacy. Over the three-month titration period, this represents approximately £150-450 in medication costs.

Ongoing Costs Without Shared Care: If your GP doesn't accept shared care, ongoing costs include monthly private prescriptions at £75 each (£900 annually), six-monthly review appointments at £225 each (£450 annually), plus continued medication costs of £600-1,800 annually. This represents a total annual cost of approximately £1,950-3,150 for continued private treatment.

With Shared Care: If shared care is established, costs reduce dramatically to annual specialist reviews at £225, with medications prescribed by your GP at NHS rates. This represents the most economical long-term option but depends entirely on GP agreement.

What if treatment isn't effective?

It's important to understand that approximately 30% of people with ADHD don't respond adequately to medications. If medications prove ineffective after completing the titration process, treatment would be discontinued. This means that despite investing £1,250 in the treatment package plus medication costs, treatment may not continue. If you wish to trial additional medication options after an initial medication fails (which have lower success rates), this would incur additional costs outside the package.

ASSESSMENT VALIDITY

Will my assessment be accepted?

Dr Baig's assessment follows established NICE guidelines and diagnostic standards. However, different organisations and professionals may have their own policies regarding private diagnoses. Universities generally accept private ADHD diagnoses for disability support, though they may require specific documentation. Employers vary in their policies, with some accepting private diagnoses while others may require occupational health assessment. The NHS does not typically accept private diagnoses for treatment purposes unless the assessment is part of an NHS-commissioned service, though your GP will be informed of the diagnosis. Educational institutions usually accept private diagnoses for support purposes, but may have specific requirements.

We cannot guarantee universal acceptance of the diagnosis, as this remains at the discretion of each organisation.

Why can't Dr Baig prescribe based on others' assessments?

This is standard practice among psychiatrists, who typically prescribe based only on their own clinical assessments. This ensures comprehensive evaluation by the prescribing clinician, direct clinical responsibility for treatment decisions, consistent diagnostic and treatment standards, and appropriate risk assessment by the treating physician. Even if another professional's assessment is valid, the prescribing clinician must conduct their own evaluation to ensure safe and appropriate treatment.

TREATMENT QUESTIONS

What about medication breaks?

During the titration phase, taking medication daily is essential. Consistent daily dosing allows accurate assessment of effects and side effects, enables appropriate dose adjustments, and helps establish steady blood levels. Missing doses during titration can delay reaching optimal dosing and complicate the assessment of medication effectiveness.

After stabilisation, some flexibility may be possible. For stimulant medications, occasional weekend breaks are generally acceptable if desired. Some people find this helps reduce tolerance or gives them a break from side effects. However, atomoxetine requires consistent daily administration to maintain therapeutic blood levels, so breaks are not recommended with this medication.

Do I need to inform DVLA?

Legal requirements state you must inform DVLA if ADHD significantly affects your driving ability or if medications cause side effects that could impact driving safety. However, this is relatively uncommon when receiving proper treatment. Research shows that appropriate ADHD treatment typically improves driving safety by enhancing attention and reducing impulsivity. Most people on stable ADHD treatment don't need to notify DVLA. If you're unsure, discuss with your clinician whether notification is necessary in your specific case.

Can I get workplace accommodation letters?

Dr Baig can provide general letters confirming your diagnosis and outlining typical workplace accommodations that benefit people with ADHD. These letters can include confirmation of diagnosis for HR purposes and general recommendations about helpful adjustments such as flexible working, quiet workspace options, or written instructions for tasks.

However, specific workplace assessments require occupational health evaluation. This involves assessment of your specific job requirements, evaluation of your particular workplace environment, and tailored recommendations for your role. These specialised assessments are separate from diagnostic services and may be available through your employer's occupational health service.

DR BAIG'S DIAGNOSTIC APPROACH

How does Dr Baig diagnose ADHD?

The diagnostic process is comprehensive and systematic. It involves establishing the presence of ADHD symptoms during both childhood and adulthood, confirming that symptoms began in childhood (before age 12), documenting lifelong persistence of characteristic symptoms, ensuring no other mental health condition better explains the symptoms, and confirming significant impairment in two or more life domains.

This process requires integration of information from multiple sources including detailed clinical interview, standardised assessment tools, informant reports about childhood, review of any available childhood records, and comprehensive psychiatric assessment. The goal is to build a complete picture that allows confident diagnostic conclusions.

Which conditions can mimic ADHD?

Several mental health conditions can produce symptoms similar to ADHD. Key aspect of ADHD diagnosis is differentiating ADHD from adult onset conditions that can cause difficulties with attention, organisation and impulsivity. Mood disorders such as depression can cause concentration problems and restlessness, while bipolar disorder can involve impulsivity and hyperactivity during manic phases. Anxiety disorders often result in concentration difficulties and physical restlessness. Dissociative conditions can cause attention problems and forgetfulness.

Other neurodevelopmental conditions, particularly autism spectrum conditions, can overlap significantly with ADHD. Personality difficulties, especially emotionally unstable personality disorder, can involve impulsivity and emotional dysregulation. Substance use can both mimic and mask ADHD symptoms. Even normal variations in personality and cognitive ability can sometimes be mistaken for ADHD. Careful differential diagnosis is essential to distinguish ADHD from these other conditions.

ADDITIONAL SERVICES

Psychological therapy access

Dr Baig can facilitate access to experienced therapists who understand ADHD. These therapists provide individual weekly sessions focusing on ADHD-related challenges, including organisation and time management skills, emotional regulation strategies, relationship difficulties related to ADHD, and cognitive behavioural therapy adapted for ADHD.

You retain complete choice about whether to work with recommended therapists or make your own arrangements. Therapy represents a separate service with its own fee structure, which would be discussed directly with the therapist.

Occupational therapy

Occupational therapy can be valuable for practical ADHD management. Services available include environmental modification strategies to reduce ADHD impact, workplace organisation systems, daily living skills development, and sensory regulation strategies. These services incur additional costs separate from assessment and medication treatment.

PRESCRIPTION INFORMATION

CONTROLLED DRUG REGULATIONS

ADHD medications are controlled drugs requiring special prescribing procedures. These medications cannot be prescribed electronically and must follow specific legal requirements. All controlled drug prescriptions must be written on special prescription forms with specific security features. These prescriptions are sent via secure postal methods to ensure safe handling. We cannot post controlled drug prescriptions directly to patient addresses for security reasons. All controlled drug prescriptions are processed through Signature Pharmacy, who have systems in place for secure handling and appropriate record-keeping.

PRESCRIPTION TIMELINE

Understanding prescription timelines helps ensure continuous medication supply. Prescriptions are issued once weekly, with all prescriptions posted by Thursday each week. To ensure your prescription is included in the weekly batch, requests must be received by 5pm on Tuesday. This timeline allows for prescription processing, security checks, and postal delivery.

You should request prescriptions with sufficient time before running out of medication. Consider that prescriptions are posted on Thursdays, postal delivery takes 1-2 days, and pharmacy processing may take additional time. We recommend requesting prescriptions at least 7-10 days before needed.

PRESCRIPTION COSTS (Outside Package)

Once the three-month treatment package is complete, prescription costs apply. Controlled drug prescriptions (all ADHD medications) cost £75 each, and non-controlled drug prescriptions cost £25 each. Prescriptions are provided free of charge during follow-up appointments. These costs reflect the additional administrative requirements for controlled drug prescribing and monitoring.

EMAIL AND ADMINISTRATIVE SUPPORT

During the titration package, email support for medication-related queries is included without additional charge. This covers questions about side effects, dosing concerns, and general medication queries. Response time is typically within 72 hours, though urgent matters are prioritised.

Outside the titration package, administrative support is charged at £60 per 10 minutes (minimum charge), including letters for third parties, complex administrative requests, and non-urgent clinical queries outside appointments. These charges reflect the clinical time required for considered responses and documentation.

NEXT STEPS

Once you've carefully considered all the information provided and feel ready to proceed with ADHD medication treatment, the process is straightforward.

First, have a detailed discussion with your GP about their willingness to accept a shared care agreement once titration is complete. Obtain written confirmation if they agree in principle, as this is essential for processing shared care requests later.

Next, email umid@umid.co.uk expressing your intention to proceed with treatment. Include confirmation that you've discussed shared care with your GP and their response. Our team will then send you comprehensive booking forms for the titration appointments.

Once forms are completed and returned, we'll arrange your six titration appointments and provide instructions for obtaining baseline measurements. You'll receive confirmation of your appointment schedule and any additional requirements.

FURTHER INFORMATION

For additional details about our ADHD service, visit: https://umid.co.uk/adhd

We wish you all the best on your journey towards better management of ADHD.

CONTACT INFORMATION

General Enquiries

For all general enquiries, email: umid@umid.co.uk This includes questions about services, booking queries, and general information requests.

Support Team Assistance

Our practice support team can help with booking appointments and scheduling changes, invoice queries and payment matters, administrative questions about forms and documentation, and technical issues with video consultations. They respond to emails within 48 hours during working days.

Clinical Matters

Clinical support is provided exclusively through scheduled appointments. We cannot provide clinical advice via email outside the titration package. For medication queries during titration, use the email support included in your package. All other clinical matters must be discussed during booked appointments. We do not provide crisis and emergency support service.

Additional Resources

For comprehensive information about Dr Baig's practice, including detailed service descriptions, current fees, answers to frequently asked questions, and booking procedures, visit: https://umid.co.uk/drbaig